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Bali for the Boys: Insider Safety Tips for the Gay Jetsetter

Ditch the tourist guide and pack this instead - your all-encompassing, rainbow-colored safety manual, for taking Bali by storm, one fabulous flip-flop at a time.

By Nathan ChenPublished 10 months ago 3 min read
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Bali for the Boys: Insider Safety Tips for the Gay Jetsetter
Photo by felfin_photo05 evin on Unsplash

If you're in the know about the international gay scene (and darling, I know you are), you've heard whispers about Bali. You've probably imagined yourself soaking in the sun, sipping a Bintang while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. And we're here to tell you: yes, Bali is every bit as fabulous as it sounds, and no, we're not just saying that because we've had one too many fruity cocktails.

But here's the thing - navigating this paradise island as a gay traveler requires some savvy know-how. And while you may be a pro at voguing a la RuPaul, it's important to stay informed to have a safe and enjoyable Bali vacay.

First, let's talk about the legal stuff. It's true that Indonesia has a bit of a complicated relationship with LGBTQ+ rights. But in Bali, a popular destination thanks to its hospitable culture and laid-back vibe, it's a bit of a different story. The rainbow flag flies a little more freely here, particularly in popular tourist areas. It's no Fire Island, but Bali's no stranger to the gay scene either.

Let's dive into some practical tips:

  1. Be Discreet in Public: Now, we're not suggesting you go full Tom Cruise-in-the-closet, but a little discretion goes a long way in Bali. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon for all couples, regardless of sexual orientation. So save those smooches for your private villa!
  2. Stay Alert: Keep an eye out for any unfriendly attitudes or situations. Remember, this isn't an episode of Queer Eye, so not everyone is here to celebrate your fabulousness.
  3. Join the Community: Bali has a lively LGBTQ+ scene, especially in Seminyak, with plenty of gay-friendly establishments. You can catch some drag queens that can even give Bianca Del Rio a run for her money.
  4. Respect the Culture: Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you can go full 'Britney in Vegas.' Bali has a deeply spiritual culture. Respect the local customs and traditions. If you need a reference, think less Miley Cyrus at the VMAs and more Hugh Jackman at a Tony Awards night.
By Ruben Hutabarat on Unsplash

After ensuring safety, the next thing on your to-do list should be having fun. If you're looking for the ultimate gay-friendly itinerary, I've got the perfect guide, "One Perfect Week in Bali: A Solo Gay Man's Epic Itinerary." It's chock-full of recommendations that'll have you living la vida loca, Ricky Martin style.

Now, you might be thinking, "This all sounds great, but how can I afford it?" Well, my friend, I've got the ultimate guide for you, "How I Spent Two Weeks In Bali for $200: Paradise on a Budget, No Kidding!" Yes, it's possible. And no, it doesn't involve sleeping in a hammock and surviving off coconuts.

Back to the safety talk, it's always important to stay informed. Here's the magic mantra: stay vigilant, respect local customs, and most importantly, don't forget to enjoy and immerse in the unique Bali experience. Cher once said, "Until you're ready to look foolish, you'll never have the possibility of being great." Well, you're already great, darling, now it's time to look a little foolish!

Keeping your safety net up doesn't mean you can't explore and enjoy. It just means you're smart enough to salsa through the crowd without stepping on anyone's toes. Think more Beyoncé commanding the stage at Coachella, less Justin Bieber puking on stage mid-concert.

While Bali might not be the all-out Pride parade you might be used to, it's an island that's ready to welcome you with open arms, and perhaps a little less rainbow confetti. And who knows? You might end up loving the serenity and subtle acceptance more than you'd expect.

So, whether you're here for the tan lines or the temple visits, the surfing lessons or the satay sticks, there's one thing you should always remember: You're not just a traveler, you're an ambassador of our fabulous community. So, while you're out there, living your best life, remember to be smart, safe, and just a dash of sassy.

Now go on, paint the town pink, and enjoy your Bali adventure!

travel advicesolo travellgbt travelhow tobudget travelasiaactivities
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About the Creator

Nathan Chen

I'm Nathan Chen, a queer Asian writer advocating for LGBTQ+ issues, Asian representation, millennial lifestyle, work life & mental health. Let's explore life's complexities together!

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